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RSSL (Reading Scientific Services Limited) is a multi-award-winning food and pharmaceutical research organisation, pushing the boundaries of science to make our world safer, healthier, and more sustainable. Our clients, based across 70 countries, trust us to deliver intelligent solutions to real-world problems through rigorous analytical testing, cutting-edge research and development, customised consultancy, and training services.
This year we have been shortlisted for a number of awards, including two from the FDF - Technologist of the Year and the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Award. In 2022, OBN recognised us as Best Contract Research Organisation (CRO) for the second time, while The Great British Business and Community Awards named us Employer of the Year and The Thames Valley Business Award honoured us as their Business of the Year.
When you join RSSL, you’re joining a global network enriched by our parent company Mondelēz International. Our diverse team includes 23 nationalities from 350 members and, all together, we are committed to transforming lives through science, innovation, and collaboration.
Our placements are 13 months long and during this time we’ll make you an integral part of the team. We hope to help you expand your horizons and encourage both your personal and professional development.
Life at RSSL
As an Analytical Biochemistry placement student at RSSL, you will be responsible and accountable for your projects from start to finish. We have multiple opportunities available across our state-of-the-art laboratories, where each has their own specialisms.
For our Analytical Biochemistry placements, we will consider the following degrees - Biochemistry, Biological Science, Biology, Microbiology, Molecular Biology and Natural Sciences.
Further details of each what each laboratory does can be found below, and we ask that you detail which area(s) you’re interested in and why as part of a cover letter which can be uploaded during the application process.
Biomolecular Analysis (BMA)
The BMA team focus mainly on biopharmaceutical product identification and characterisation through an increasing number of GMP methods which are an expanding part of our work. A student in this team will perform structural characterisation and confirmation through peptide sequencing or mapping and checking molecular weight or size of the products, using techniques such as SDS-PAGE, PCR, LC-MS and ELISA. You will also develop your technical skills and deepen your knowledge on pharmaceutical industry in general, whilst working in accordance with GMP standards.
DNA and Protein
The DNA and Protein laboratory performs a wide range of analytical analyses for a wide variety of food companies and also supports Mondelez research and innovation. A placement student here will be responsible for performing a range of routine analyses, for example Allergen and Meat Authenticity Testing using ELISA and PCR techniques and/or Whole Genome Sequencing to identify bacterial organisms, ensuring that projects are completed effectively and meet the customer’s contractual agreements. They shall perform chemical analysis and report work in accordance with the quality standards.
Pharmaceutical Microbiology
The Pharmaceutical Microbiology team supports the pharmaceutical and healthcare industries with a wide range of microbiological tests. Working to current GMP standards, the laboratory undertakes a wide range of pharmacopeial testing. As an Intern in this laboratory, you will gain technical experience in using aseptic techniques to perform tests like Microbial Limits test and Bioburden test. In addition, you will develop relevant technical skills by being part of a team that performs a range of microbiological analyses like Endotoxin analysis, Sterility, Preservative Efficacy test, Disinfection test and Bacterial identification.
During the placement, you will be expected to plan and execute experiments related to your projects, produce technical reports/presentations, and periodically communicate your key findings to stakeholders. You will also have the opportunity to interact with other departments within RSSL and, for certain roles, the wider Mondelez business. In addition to this, you may also be expected to support other ongoing project activities outside of your immediate team. Where a project is required to be completed as art of your university degree, we will ensure to work with you and your supervisor to devise a project which meets the requirements.
Please be aware that this role may require handling of materials that may contain chemicals, solvents and allergens, and the appropriate protective wear will be supplied.
Candidate requirements
- Studying towards a suitable scientific degree
- Predicted classification 2:1 (or equivalent)
- Self-driven and motivated
- Naturally inquisitive and passionate about technical excellence
- Can work with a level of autonomy, as well as within a team
- Demonstrate strong analytical, communication and presentation abilities
- Pro-active and ready to take on new responsibilities
- Able to build strong relationships
- Good working knowledge of MS Office
- Able to travel (if required)
In return for your commitment, drive and enthusiasm, we offer an attractive benefits package within a highly successful international business that offers a competitive salary, 35 days annual leave (including bank holidays), contributory pension, life assurance, and a flexible benefits programme.
